Yet the layabout said she was treated "totally unfairly" — claims slammed by politicians.

John Lines, Tory councillor for the Bartley Green ward in Birmingham, said: "Sadly this irresponsible attitude by a small but significant number of parents has been brought about by our welfare system, which is abused some, and openly encouraging by the left wing politicians.

"What sort of example and what future for those children and what message does it send to others?"

DAVE EVITTS / SWNS.COM

ANGER: Mum-of-five Emma Lawlor was disgusted with how she was portrayed on TV

Benefits mum: Cheryl Prudham

Friday, 18th December 2015

Unemployed Couple Robert and Cheryl Prudham receive around £38,000 a year in benefits for their 12 children. The couple have spent thousands on holidays and designer clothes, here they are with trolley loads of Xmas presents.

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SWNS.com

Cheryl Prudham and her family at home in Kent, the family receive £38000 a year in benefits

DAVE EVITTS / SWNS.COM

BROOD: Emma has five kids from two different men

“When I appeared on the TV show I was just talking to them normally and saying positive things about wanting to get back to college but I've been treated totally unfairly”

Emma Lawlor

And fellow Tory for neighbouring the Weoley Castle ward Peter Douglas Osbourn said: "This proves to be a destructive element in the social security system. It encourages people with bad habits to their detriment."

But defiant Emma said: "I am not doing anything illegal or wrong. I'm entitled to every penny I get.

"I have to look after my kids. I love them all and I have to treat them. It's stressful looking after five kids on my own.

"I do buy a few takeaways for them because sometimes I just can't face cooking and yes I do smoke but I can't cope otherwise.

"When I appeared on the TV show I was just talking to them normally and saying positive things about wanting to get back to college but I've been treated totally unfairly."